I've been applying T gel daily per my endo's prescription for exactly 9 weeks.  I've read a lot here and on other sites about how T gel doesn't work, can't get blood levels up high enough, is second rate and has slower effects on masculinization, etc.

My T level pre-T was 40, which was a normal female level of T.  My T level today was 799, which is at the high end even for bio-males.  My endo is keeping my dose the same.

Yes, I did just have a hysto, which is why my endo felt that topical gel would be good for me, and clearly he was right.  Just wanting to put the info out there that topical gel can and does do what it is supposed to do.

Jay

you nailed it, Jay.

Most everyone's complaints with the gel have been that it takes longer it to overcome estrogen.  That means slower changes, periods for longer, etc.  Coupling the gel with a hysterectomy right off the bat has no doubt helped your levels out some.  But for guys with a fully-functioning system, especially during prime child-rearing years, the gel can be a slow way to go.

My endo told me the exact opposite he says that it is actually better because of the method of using it.. applying gel or shot way. However he said it works exactly the same there is no diffrence and it is all rumours.. I am going to have my blood checked again before I go back in December so I shall see what my levels are like then! I prefer the gel. I started on shots so I cant say anything about the changes... the only thing I have noticed is the anger has gone!

Topicals at the right dosage will cause androgenic changes. It may even be better for some because it has a more stable dosing cycle (with patient compliance) and has a higher conversion to DHT then the shots. It has also been documented that this also causes higher elevations in PSA. I am not allowed to link but if you type "PSA female DHT" you will get some interesting links. However most people aren't patient enough in the beginning and if they believe that shots are more effective they often don't wait long enough for the topical to work before switching. In addition some people believe having the swings of injections with it's associated temporarily high levels of testosterone will bring about changes faster. However at the end of the day if the dose is right you will see changes whether you use a topical, injection or other method.  I happen to dislike topical routes but that doesn't mean they don't work just that I don't like the daily swings.

->-bleeped-<-boy

My Endo is starting me on the gel (in mid october). The main reason is because I am going backpacking for 2 months and the gel is just easier to cart around and apply. He also said there was no difference between the gel or the shots

Alex unless you are being resupplied periodically I can assure you that the gel is by far heavier then a vial and couple of syringes. If you are using mail drops or whatever I guess it isn't a huge weight penalty. I would be interested why you think the gel is better in your circumstances. You don't have to tell me but I am interested either way. Are you hoping to use it as your emergency fire starter? Perhaps a makeshift hand sanitizer?

->-bleeped-<-boy

Quote from: ->-bleeped-<-boy link=topic=44406.msg286036#msg286036 date=1222475256
Alex unless you are being resupplied periodically I can assure you that the gel is by far heavier then a vial and couple of syringes. If you are using mail drops or whatever I guess it isn't a huge weight penalty. I would be interested why you think the gel is better in your circumstances. You don't have to tell me but I am interested either way. Are you hoping to use it as your emergency fire starter? Perhaps a makeshift hand sanitizer?

->-bleeped-<-boy

lol, we are backpacking around asia, I dont think it would be a good idea to carry needles in my backpack. Also Im pretty sure I am not allowed to have them in my backpack on a plane. The gel is easier as I have a prescription for it and it can just go in my backpack on planes/trains/elephants/wherever with no hassles

Alex, get some legal advice before you start touring Asia. Many countries in Asia are extremely strict on controlled substances, not just the needles. However in my personal experience I have never had trouble bringing my needles and drugs on planes but then I didn't try to bring them into any countries that had the death penalty for drug possession/ trafficking. I am sure you have done your research but you don't want any misunderstanding well you are travelling and so vulnerable. Please let me know how your trip goes, I am debating travelling in Asia but I have other places I want to go first.

The other thing that comes to mind is the alcohol in the gel might prove problematic. I know they don't let me bring my alcohol fuel on the plane or luggage. I have no idea just throwing out a what pops into my mind at 4AM.

->-bleeped-<-boy

Quote from: ->-bleeped-<-boy link=topic=44406.msg286104#msg286104 date=1222501337

The other thing that comes to mind is the alcohol in the gel might prove problematic.

I can't speak for Asia, but at least in the US prescription gels are unlimited; you just have to declare them up front.  I recently traveled and brought my box of gel packets and they didn't even blink.

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/editorial_1059.shtm

Jay